![]() ![]() Peter Qvortrup believes that most technological ‘advances’ in audio for the past couple of decades have served to put more between us and the essential beauty of music. The 300B, EL 84, and 2A3 amps sound distinctly different from one another, though you would never mistake any of them for anyone else’s product. The Audio Note sound is not dependent on triode tubes, single-endedness, or silver cabling but it draws on all of them. No one has ever called any other British speaker irresistible. Like the the body and natural warmth of Gilbert Yeung/JMR based systems, Audio Note beauty (there really is no better name for it) can be deeply and permanently addictive, irresistible. It is the only audio line I have ever heard referred to as beautiful. Audio Note clarity has a humane glow to it. Again, edges through Audio Note speakers are clear but tastefully attenuated, less so the more silver used in their wiring. Audio Note speakers are more transparent and less overtly charming than Classic Spendors, more present and less restrained than Harbeths, to cite their principal British brethren. Audio Note systems can make their competition sound…unfinished. ![]() This has to do with (1) resisting the temptation to lead with leading edges and (2) with refinement - a subtle refinement applied with consummate tact that only becomes evident in contrast with other gear. The secret is tact: understanding that analogue does not mean warm and cozy, it means beautiful the way live music can be beautiful. ![]() There are audio companies who more or less agree with Audio Notes approach but none I’ve heard do it as well. Those are also attributes of live music, equally essential to some listeners. ‘Analogue’ is not as transparent, fast, or present as the best digital when coupled with the best solid state electronics. Analogue prioritizes beauty, which is an essential attribute of live music, some would say the most important one. I can think of no other word that serves as well. People who characterize the sound of Audio Note gear as ‘analogue’ are not wrong. ![]()
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